Product Development Manager

THE COMPANY

For nearly 90 years, The Dupps Company has offered the protein recycling industry the world's most complete line of durable, high-performance rendering systems and equipment — as well as unsurpassed expertise in creating better ways to process protein by-products into profitable meals and fats.

Today, The Dupps Company, is currently looking to add a Product Development Manager to its growing team at our HQs in Germantown, Ohio.

THE POSITION

This position is focused on driving innovation and product improvement throughout the enterprise. The product development manager will collaborate with leadership and other stakeholders to create a product strategy, goals and vision for the business. This person will be responsible for translating these business objectives into a roadmap for product development.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent (Master's Degree preferred)
• A minimum of 5 years' experience managing engineers in a design/manufacturing environment.
• Experience with ASME BPVC Section 8, Div.1 design requirements a plus.
• Proficient in 3D CAD software
• Must have solid experience with FEA simulation software, CFD experience a plus.
• Comprehensive knowledge of ERP software and related engineering functions.
• Strong Project Management Experience
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills required.
• Strong communicator capable of articulating vision, goals, and requirements to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, & Outlook).
• Strong leadership skills - capable of providing concise direction, motivation and able to resolve conflict.
• Good business acumen – ability to make decisions that align with business goals, ensuring cost-effectiveness and ROI.
• Recognized design creativity pertaining to both new products and existing product improvement.
• Familiar with manufacturing processes consistent with heavy fabrications.
• Background in Value Analysis, and continuous product improvement

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ROLE

• Collaborate with leadership to define the product strategy, goals, and vision.
• Translate business objectives into a roadmap for product development.
• Lead and coordinate efforts between cross-functional teams, including engineering, design, marketing, sales, and customer support.
• Ensure that teams are aligned with product goals and timelines.
• Communicate product vision and requirements to all stakeholders.
• Conduct market research to identify customer needs, trends, and competitive products.
• Gather and analyze customer feedback to inform product decisions and ensure the product meets customer needs.
• Develop and manage the product roadmap, ensuring alignment with company priorities and timelines.
• Make trade-offs and prioritize features based on market demand, technical constraints, and business value.
• Oversee the entire product lifecycle, from initial concept through development, launch, and post-launch iterations.
• Track product performance and use data to drive continuous improvement.
• Manage timelines, resources, and budgets to ensure products are delivered on schedule and within scope.
• Identify and resolve obstacles that could delay product development or compromise quality.
• Regularly update senior leadership and stakeholders on product progress, challenges, and achievements.
• Act as the point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring clear communication.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to develop go-to-market strategies for product launches.
• Ensure product readiness, coordinate beta testing or pilot programs, and oversee the final product release.
• Identify potential risks in the product development process and implement strategies to mitigate them.
• Ensure that any technical or market challenges are addressed in a timely manner.
• Foster a culture of innovation within the team and the product development process.
• Continuously evaluate and optimize the product development process to increase efficiency and effectiveness.

Pay: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year base salary